How can I attach a wire to the front side of a shadowbox/shelf?

Panic Mo
by Panic Mo

I have a couple deep shadow box shelves that I would like to attach chicken wire or similar to the front side without having to use a frame to cover it. I've seen all sorts with the wiring on the wall side of the shelf, but I want it on the outer side. Is there a way to bend the wire inward and attach nicely? Or can I attach it straight to the front edge and cover it with something I don't have to go out and purchase-meaning a frame? I have thought of shells or moss but I would appreciate more input!! Thanks!!


  8 answers
  • You could staple it on and then cover the staples will some sort of fabric trim hot-glued over it.

  • William William on Jan 09, 2020

    Staple or tack it on the front. Cover with anything you want or have.

  • Kelli L. Milligan Kelli L. Milligan on Jan 10, 2020

    Don't try to fold it, just staple or tack on and edge with burlap ribbon. You can also "frame" it with old wooden rulers. Have fun.

  • Cindy Cindy on Jan 10, 2020

    You can bend chicken wire but I strongly recommend wearing gloves when you do. Needle nose pliers will also make this job a lot easier. You could staple the chicken wire right on the front of your shadow box. Then use the needle nose pliers to bend the sharp edges to fit along the inside perimeter of the box. I like the idea of attaching some sort of decoration that will make the edges look finished.

  • Em Em on Jan 10, 2020

    If you don't want it to show on the front, bend the edges over and staple the wire to the sides as close as you can to the back. Clip the corners of the wire so it is easier to fold over and tack.

    One strip of half round or inexpensive trim at somewhere like Home Depot will do the trick in the front. It is very inexpensive.

  • Emily Emily on Jan 10, 2020

    I think you could also use tacks used in upholstery, they come in strips. The most important thing is to make sure your chicken wire is completely flat before you measure and cut it and to cut it carefully so that it fits exactly without any buckling. Is your only aversion to using a frame (which would be much simpler) buying one? Cause maybe you could construct one out of wooden yard sticks or paint sticks or any flat narrow wood.

    Much easier to attach the wire to a frame than attach and then cover the edges up. (see example here)

  • Deb K Deb K on Jan 10, 2020

    Hello Panic Mo, how about wrapping it around to the back and using a staple gun to attach it at

  • Simple Nature Decor Simple Nature Decor on Jan 15, 2020

    Not sure what you mean by wire but here are some cute shadow box ideas that you can make https://www.craftymorning.com/cutest-shadow-box-ideas-make/